Convert TAR to POTM in C# .NET

What is TAR file format?

A TAR (tape archive) file serves as a versatile archive format, primarily utilized on Unix and Linux systems, housing multiple files alongside their associated metadata. This metadata comprises essential information like filenames, permissions, ownership details, file sizes, and other file system requirements. TAR files have gained widespread adoption as a means of storing and transferring files, particularly over the internet.

Creating a TAR file involves amalgamating multiple files into a single archive and subsequently compressing it using compression programs like gzip or bzip2. This compression process significantly reduces the file size, facilitating easier storage and transfer. Extracting files from a TAR archive is accomplished using the TAR program, enabling the recreation of the original files.

TAR files have become a fundamental part of the Linux and Unix ecosystem and are also supported by other operating systems that recognize the TAR format. Their usage extends beyond file management, as software developers frequently employ TAR files to package and distribute their software applications. By bundling all the necessary files and metadata, TAR files streamline the distribution process, ensuring that all components are packaged together for easy installation.

Moreover, TAR files find their place in the realm of data backup. Backup software often employs TAR files to store system backups, capturing all relevant files and metadata required to restore a system to a previous state. The TAR format provides a reliable and efficient method for creating comprehensive backups, safeguarding critical data against loss or corruption.

What is POTM file format?

A POTM file refers to a macro-enabled presentation template created using Microsoft PowerPoint, a software program used for creating slide show presentations. It includes default images, slide templates, macros, and formatting. POTM files are commonly used by PowerPoint users to create multiple .PPTM files with consistent designs and macro settings.

POTM files offer additional functionality compared to typical presentation files, as they support macros. Macros are script-like functions that automate repetitive tasks within PowerPoint. Users can record macros that can be replayed to perform specific actions and assign them to buttons or keystrokes for convenient execution. To record a macro, users can select View → Macros in PowerPoint.

For general presentation creation, users can save their files as .PPTX or .POTX files. However, if they want to create a template that incorporates macros, they can save their presentation as a POTM file.

It’s worth noting that POTM files were introduced by Microsoft when they released Microsoft Office 2007.

To open a POTM file, Microsoft PowerPoint (2007 or later) is the recommended application for full support of presentation formatting and embedded macros on both Windows and macOS. Alternative applications like Apache OpenOffice Impress, Kingsoft Presentation, and Apple Keynote can also open POTM files, but some formatting and macros may not be fully preserved. For Mac users looking to view a POTM file without editing, Apple Preview (bundled with macOS) or Google Drive, a free cloud storage service, can be used.

Online platforms like Google Slides allow users to upload POTM files for viewing, editing, and conversion. However, it’s important to note that Google Slides does not support macros.

To convert a POTM file, various presentation applications including Microsoft PowerPoint, Apple Keynote, and OpenOffice Impress offer conversion capabilities. In Microsoft PowerPoint for Windows and Mac, users can select File → Save As and choose from formats such as .PPTX, .PPT, .PDF, .ODP, .XPS, .MP4, .WMV, .JPEG, and .PNG to convert the POTM file to their desired format.